Overview & Reviews

Designed with the North American market in mind, the Subaru Outback wagon provides many popular SUV traits without the associated drawbacks. Based on Subaru's midsize Legacy, the Outback comes standard with all-wheel drive, a raised suspension for better ground clearance, and special interior and exterior styling details.

There have been four Outback generations. At its debut, the original Subaru Outback was pretty much the only vehicle of its type and was an instant hit with consumers. More recent iterations lost a bit of an edge as other automakers came up with similar crossover wagons and SUVs at the start of the new millennium, but the latest fourth-generation Outback is more like a crossover SUV than ever. New or used, the Outback is a strong contender for shoppers interested in a car that provides plenty of everyday versatility with the type of all-season capability needed for frosty climes.

Current Subaru Outback
The five-passenger Subaru Outback is a tall wagon available in a number of trim levels -- 2.5i, 2.5i Premium, 2.5i Limited, 3.6R, 3.6R Premium and 3.6R Limited -- distinguished by powertrain. The base engine is a 2.5-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder that makes 170 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque. It comes with either a six-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Also available is 3.6-liter six-cylinder boxer engine good for 256 hp and 247 lb-ft of torque, with a five-speed conventional automatic as the only available transmission.

Even the base Outback comes with roof rails, full power accessories, cruise control, a tilt-telescoping steering column, a height-adjustable driver seat and a CD stereo with an auxiliary audio jack. Higher trims add niceties like alloy wheels, foglights, powered and heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, iPod/USB inputs, Bluetooth phone/audio connectivity and a Harman Kardon sound system. There's also an optional voice-activated navigation system.

More so than previous Outbacks, the new model is meant to appeal to more mainstream buyers by being larger on the inside. To this end, while bumper-to-bumper length has shrunk by almost 1 inch, the wheelbase has grown by nearly 3 inches, width by 2 inches and height by 4 inches, enlarging interior space considerably and putting the Outback on par with other midsize crossovers. With the rear seats folded, there are an impressive 71 cubic feet of cargo space available.

In reviews, we've commented favorably about the current Outback's roomier interior. Performance with the base four-cylinder is unremarkable, however; if you want some zip, you'll need to ante up for the 3.6-liter engine. We miss the previous Outback's turbocharged boxer-4, a boon for owners living in mountainous areas. Handling is also unimpressive, as the Outback's elevated ride height and soft suspension tuning do their best to obscure the vehicle's sedan roots. Overall, the latest Outback is a solid choice for utility-minded families, but it's not as enjoyable to drive as previous models.

Used Subaru Outback Models
The current, fourth-generation Subaru Outback was introduced for 2010. There have been no significant changes since then.

The third-generation Outback was produced from 2005-'09. There were several trim levels: base 2.5i, 2.5i Special Edition, 2.5i Limited, 2.5 XT Limited, 3.0 R, 3.0R Limited and 3.0R L.L. Bean Edition.

For power, 2.5i trim levels had a 2.5-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine that made 170 hp. The XT level upgraded to a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine with 243 hp. The 3.0 R model came with a 3.0-liter horizontally opposed six-cylinder (H6) good for 245 hp. All-wheel drive was standard across the board.

Models with either of the 2.5-liter engines could be equipped with a five-speed manual transmission. A four-speed automatic was available on 2.5i models, while 2.5 XT models got an optional five-speed auto. The 2.5i Limited models were four-speed automatics only, and the H6 came only with the five-speed automatic.

If you're shopping for a used model of this generation, there are a few items to note. An Outback sedan was offered from 2005-'07. Additionally, all Outbacks prior to the 2008 model year lacked a telescoping steering wheel and auxiliary audio jack. Horsepower figures were lowered for 2007 due to revised SAE standards, but actual performance was not affected. The luxurious L.L. Bean trim levels were discontinued after 2008, replaced by a single 3.0 R Limited model, and stability control also became standard.

In reviews, this third-generation Subaru Outback received praise for its standard all-wheel drive, long list of features, strong turbocharged engine, above-average build quality and balanced ride and handling dynamics. While it didn't quite have the off-road capabilities of a true SUV, it could take on light-duty terrain without complaint. Negatives brought up in reviews typically centered on the vehicle's smallish backseat and the sluggish response from the automatic transmissions.

The second-generation Subaru Outback (2000-'04) was also available as either a sedan or a wagon. In its first year, this model was available in base and Limited trims, and had a 165-hp, 2.5-liter engine. The following year, Subaru introduced the L.L. Bean Edition and the VDC trim levels. These featured the more powerful 212-hp six-cylinder engine.

Compared to the current car, the second-generation Outback is a bit smaller and not quite as refined or capable. Subaru made minor improvements to this generation during the years, but none are significant enough to make any particular model year stand out. In Edmunds.com road tests, reviewers liked its standard all-wheel drive and car-based comfort. Some felt that the four-cylinder models were underpowered, however, and that it was eclipsed by newer competition in its later years.

When the original Subaru Outback model debuted in 1995, it was little more than a trim package on the Legacy wagon. In 1996, the Outback (officially known as the Legacy Outback for this generation) gained its raised suspension, large foglights, SUV design cues and optional 155-hp 2.5-liter engine. Further improvements during successive years included the addition of a leather-lined Limited model, dual sunroofs and powertrain refinements. As the Outback was one of the first crossover wagons to be designed, consumers interested in this type of vehicle from the late 1990s will likely find it to be quite suitable, especially compared to SUVs from the same period.

User Reviews:

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  Wish US made a wagon like this. - 2016 Subaru Outback
  By Garry - August 22 - 9:21 pm

  We havent bought a new car in about 10 years, and took this purchase very seriously. We basically wanted all wheel drive in something that would get good gas mileage, and after a lot of research the 4-cylinder Outback seemed to fit the bill. Weve had it for 2 months, and already have 3500 miles on it. I have to say I love driving this car. The ride is great, great handling, the seats seem to be comfortable as we have taken 4-hour drives in it. The electronics are probably more than I would have wanted, but the options came with the power passenger seat and sunroof I did want. I use the cruise a lot, and the adaptive cruise option is neat. The only problem so far with the car is mileage. One reason I chose the 4-cylinder was EPA highway of 33 mpg. So far Im only getting about 29. Ive asked about that, and the Subaru dealer told me it would improve over time. Well see. But I would recommend the Outback to anyone.

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  This Outback Fills The Bill - 2017 Subaru Outback
  By Walter Churchill - August 22 - 2:21 am

  Living in Maine its important to have a reliable car that can handle all of the various road conditions. Although I have 3 cars (a Lexus ES, a Mitsubishi Eclipse, and the Outback), my vehicle of choice during the winter has always been the Subaru. I previously had a Subaru Baja, but after 12 years it was starting to see the effects of the Maine winters. I recently replaced it with the Outback Limited. Subaru has finally started to add the technology and creature comforts that have been around for many years in the Toyota and other Japanese cars. This car is extremely comfortable to drive. the steering is tight and predictable, the breaking is excellent, and the Navigation and I-sight systems work well. Although Ive only had the car for a few months, the more that I drive it the more that I like it. Its not as quiet and doesnt have the soft ride of my Lexus, but its still very quiet at highway speeds and the road feel is smooth. There is little or no lean going around curves. The various controls, although logically positioned, still took a little getting used to as they are somewhat different than other cars I have owned. However, after driving the car for a few months Ive gotten used to where everything is and have no issues. The car has great visibility, an incredible amount of interior space, and several features that Ive only seen on some of the more expensive luxury cars, such as heated and reclining rear passenger seats. I anticipate that this car will be trouble free, and the Subaru guarantee is bumper to bumper including "wear items" (such as windshield wipers, break pads, etc.). I would not hesitate to recommend this SUV to anyone.

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  Disappointing - 2013 Subaru Outback
  By 13outback - August 20 - 12:14 am

  4000 miles on new 2013 limited model. First new car purchase Ive disliked. I bought largely based on positive reviews but car has been disappointing. 1. 2.5 engine is inadequate. Granted we live around some hills but this car feels that it is actively protesting every time it goes up hill. 2. Fuel mileage is nowhere near EPA estimates. 3. Auto climate control works poorly 4. Build quality issues. For example theres a nut lock fluid thats obviously been used that is all over the alloy wheels. 5. Cheap materials. Seat leather is very cheap and at 4000 miles is already puckering. Id look really hard before buying one of these. Its not the quality of a $30K car.

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  Guess I got the lemon - 2003 Subaru Outback
  By Jane - August 18 - 7:13 pm

  Immediately post-purchase, I noticed the car hesitated on acceleration & had slow & clunky gear shifting. I was told that was just "the boxer engine"?! The car chews thru the brakes - been replaced & repaired every year. Wind noise has been a constant irritation & I cant read stereo settings on bright days due to glare. Today, I was told that the head gasket is blown and the brake pads are gone again. In spite of having routine maintenance, this 6 year old car has had a long history of expensive repair, gets poor mileage & requires more expensive gas. I would never buy another Subaru but from others revus, clearly Im in the minority?! Must have been the lemon?!

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  First impressions-great - 2011 Subaru Outback
  By George Alexanian - August 14 - 6:46 pm

  Read 195 reviews for 2020 model before baying. Just got 2011 3.6R limited a few days ago. During test drive on freeway, had to slam on brakes. Stopped great, no swerving. Did not notice problem with passenger seat, or difficulty of closing hatchback as others reported in 10 model. V6 engine only way to go. No special financing or rebates-too new. Will write more after winter and drive in snow.

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  20,000 miles, 8 month review - 2005 Subaru Outback
  By occking - August 13 - 7:36 pm

  So far very pleased with the vehicle. Gas mileage has steadily improved since new. I do mostly highway driving, going from near Providence RI to Montreal every few weeks; on those trips average (actual) 26.5 to 28 mpg. Trip computer always indicated 1 to 1.5 mpg higher than actual. The front windows seem to fog up very easily however, and I havent figured out a way yet with the heating system how to eliminate that from happening. Took quite some time to get used the the very low center armrest in the vehicle. Have an excellent place to put my XM Commander unit (satellite radio) right on the center console.

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  Wins the competition but Id like better - 2008 Subaru Outback
  By dusanmal - August 11 - 11:13 am

  As the title implies we got the car simply because no one does better in this category. Not because we are completely happy with it. We have had long and good experience with 2002 model. Quality apparently still holds. Gas mileage is somewhat better than sticker EPA estimate. Performance is appropriate for the purpose. Comfort is good and slightly better vs. 2002. Design is clean and appropriate for the CAR Wagon, what it should be (Subaru, please remove it from the SUV ranks). Minor ergonomic design errors (location of handbrake and pedals). Major utility design errors (wheels, cargo space).

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  Horrible Seat Comfort and Goofy Nav System - 2011 Subaru Outback
  By cincy3 - August 11 - 8:59 am

  I now own my first Subaru Outback for just a week and already want to get rid of it. One huge factor... the seat headrests are horrible. Have now, after purchasing the car, found several blogs citing the same problem. The headrests lean too far forward making my neck ache - and I cannnot find a comfortable position. I now need to find someone to fix it or i will be getting rid of it after just a week of ownership. Also - a minor complaint - the Nav system is goofy. Takes different disks for different parts of the country instead of one simple system like Garmin. So, living on the edge of their regions - I have to keep switching disks. goofy.

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  Different Point of View - 2015 Subaru Outback
  By molder - August 11 - 2:38 am

  I have always been a GM person. A couple years back I went to work for a supplier to Subaru. It was time to buy a new car and after being involved as a supplier I found just how quality minded Subaru is. Its my job to over see the plastic molding for the doors and dashboards for the 2015 Outback and Legacy. We scrap any molding that has the smallest imprafection. We make 925 car units a day and after multi inspections they are ready to head for the assembly line at the Subaru plant in Lafayette, Indiana. In October I took delivery of a 2015 Outback and its just a very nice car to drive. I have a 16 ft travel trailer weighting 2400 lbs and this car pulls it very well.

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  seat heater switches - 2001 Subaru Outback
  By gilatravler - August 11 - 2:00 am

  great car, fun to drive and well designed